Tag: kitchen remodeling tips

The Top Requests When Remodeling A Kitchen

Here at Joseph & Berry one of the things we love the most about what we do is helping our clients through the design build remodel process. Remodeling a kitchen is a daunting task filled with a plethora of choices from finishes and fixtures to appliances and functionality.

The first step our designers take when we’re remodeling a kitchen is to meet with our client. We want to learn about their lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and needs. We always ask about their creative vision for their dream kitchen and we quickly come up with a list of must-have features and a wish list. While wish lists can vary widely, when it comes to must-have features, we overwhelming hear the same thing.

Here are five of the most requested kitchen feature requests we hear from Joseph & Berry clients remodeling a kitchen.

• A Large Kitchen Sink or Two

Most of our clients specifically request a large single basin sink, typically 30 to 33 inches wide and 9 or more inches in depth. Why is this a common request? Even with a dishwasher, and a double sink, big pots and pans are tough to clean and that’s unacceptable!

• Kitchen Dining Space

Whether it’s a smaller kitchen or a huge space, most of our clients request an eat-in component be added to their design. Typically it is in addition to the formal dining room, sometimes just a nook other times a bit more. In fact, this is often in addition to seating at the island. Islands are great for grabbing a quick bite, and formal dining rooms are a bit much for the evening meal. An eat-in kitchen is the best of both worlds. The final design will depend on square footage, but typically we can creatively add an informal dining space to most kitchens.

• Plenty of Storage

Almost every client asks for more storage. This is especially true with families who often buy in bulk. Fortunately, there are many ways to maximize storage in the kitchen. If you have extra space, or a closet in the kitchen a walk-in pantry is a great functional addition. If you don’t have a spare closet, one of the best ways to add storage is to include a tall cabinet with roll-out drawers to your design.

• Additional of Prep Space

Older kitchens weren’t designed for multiple cooks (is that where the phrase too many cooks in the kitchen originated?) Plus the prep space was generally a limited space next to the sink. Today, the trend is towards larger more accommodating kitchens. It’s not uncommon to have two chef families and that means more prep space. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends a continuous prep area at least 36” wide and 24” deep next to the sink for a primary workspace. Secondary workspaces include islands or peninsulas which can also double as serving areas.

• Eliminate Clutter

No matter how big and beautiful your kitchen is, it’ll feel a lot smaller with cluttered countertops. Today, a well-equipped kitchen will have all kinds of appliances like high-end blenders, mixers, food processors, toasters, and more. Our clients are creating their beautiful dream kitchen and one of the biggest requests we get is to keep the counters clutter-free. Building the microwave into the wall, or under the island, appliance garages, specialty cabinets, and built-in coffee stations are all design choices that can reduce clutter and keep the kitchen feeling open and improve sight lines.

Remodeling a Kitchen with Joseph & Berry

At Joseph & Berry, our goal is to exceed our client’s expectations when working with them to create their luxurious dream kitchen. These five components are requested by many of our clients and we happily honor their requests. Each of these design elements can be both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Our team of professional designers is always ready to help achieve our client’s creative vision. Remodeling a kitchen can be challenging, let our team help make it easier… and a lot more fun! Contact us and lets schedule your consultation (800)-371-8970!

Kitchen Remodeling – Downdraft or Hood Island Cooktop Ventilation

If you’re considering a kitchen remodeling project choosing your cooking appliance is one of the biggest and most exciting choices you’ll make. Whether your project includes a professional range, or a wall oven and cooktop in the island, an important, and often overlooked element of your cooking area is your range hood.

Proper ventilation is a critical element in a functional kitchen. Your ventilation system removes all of the steam, smoke, food particles, grease and odors from your kitchen. It’s in fact, one of the most important elements of a functional kitchen, especially in an open concept home. If your kitchen features an island, ventilation is even more important and can also be a prominent focal point in your kitchen.

Today, you have a choice when it comes to ventilation options for an island cooktop. A free hanging range hood is functional and can add an exciting focal point to your kitchen design. Your second option is a downdraft ventilation system. Depending on your kitchen design, this is an appliance that can be hidden by flush mounting it with the countertop of your island, and when needed, raised at the push of a button.

Let’s take a look at some considerations when choosing a ventilation option for your kitchen remodeling project.

Your Kitchen Remodeling Project: Ventilation Guidelines

Whether you choose a range hood or a downdraft system there are some guidelines you’ll need to be aware of. When choosing a system, the minimum airflow required will be based on the BTU output of the cooktop. A good general guideline is to divide the total BTU output by 100 to get the flow rate of ventilation in feet per minute.

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For example:

A cooktop with a combined burner output of 70,000 BTUs would require a system that is rated at 700 cubic feet per minute or higher. Generally, electric cooktops, including induction systems will require 200 cubic feet per minute of airflow per foot of cooktop width. For most electric cooktops and induction systems, a minimum of 400 cubic feet per minute is appropriate.

Local building codes may specify how cooktop hoods are exhausted. Some require that your system deliver exhaust out of the house through ductwork rather than recirculating it back into the kitchen. Local codes may also specify materials to be used for ducting, typically galvanized steel, stainless steel or copper. Your design build remodeling contractor will know the local requirements for ventilation systems and can help you to make the correct choice.

Ducted or Ductless Range Hood Systems

A range hood can be a wonderful focal point in your kitchen. They come in a variety of styles and when used over an island are known as free hanging range hoods. The main distinctions when choosing a hood is the airflow rate and whether they are ducted or ductless systems.

A ducted range hood tends to be more expensive and requires placement of a vent to the exterior of your home, which can increase costs. The system includes a fan which draws air through the hood into the ductwork and exhausts it out of your home. If you are undergoing a complete gut to the studs kitchen remodeling, ductwork would be placed in the ceiling to the exterior of your home. You may be limited by the layout of your kitchen. If this is the case, a ductless range hood might be an option.

A ductless system looks exactly the same as a free hanging ducted range hood. The difference lies in how it functions. With a ductless system, the air is drawn into the hood and then passed through activated carbon or charcoal filters that trap and remove odor, grease, and food particles. The clean warm air is then recirculated back into the kitchen. The main advantage of a ductless system is that it can be placed anywhere, requires no additional construction or venting and is generally less expensive.

Range hoods are available to fit any style kitchen from traditional to industrial. They can be an interesting focal point in your kitchen design and come in a variety of materials from wood and copper to stainless steel and glass to match any design style.

Here is a great example of a copper custom made vent hood that adds elegance and flair to the kitchen design as well as being afunctional.

A winning project for Best color match By Joseph & Berry Luxury Remodeling

Downdraft Ventilation

A downdraft vent is a sleek, modern looking ventilation system that is at home within an island and is a great option in a modern or contemporary kitchen design. Unlike a range hood, a downdraft system, (also known as a pop-up vent) sucks the fumes, cooking grease and food particles down and pushes them out of the house through ducting located under the floor.

They are ultra-modern, typically installed behind or below the cooktop. When you need ventilation, push a button and the vent rises 8 to 10 inches above the cooktop surface. A downdraft system is invisible until engaged, making them perfect in a modern kitchen design where clean lines and a minimal look are popular. Pop-up vents take up significantly less space than a range hood and are great in small kitchens where you may lack the space for a full range hood.

They tend to be a little more expensive than a range hood and are not available in a wide a variety of styles. Because they only rise 10 inches, steam and grease coming from tall pots may be problematic. If you often cook using multiple pots and pans, downdraft ventilation may have a hard time keeping up.

Proper ventilation is a key element to a functional kitchen. When planning your kitchen remodeling and design, work with your design build contractor. They can offer you information and options when it comes to choosing the proper ventilation system for your new kitchen.

Are Professional Kitchen Appliances Necessary or a Luxury?

When planning a kitchen remodel, one of the more fun choices you’ll have to make revolves around your kitchen appliances. We’ve all seen the photos on Houzz or the fabulous kitchen renovation on HGTV that feature stunning, sleek luxury stainless steel professional appliances. They’re beautiful and of course, we all look longly at them and imagine our kitchen decked out with high-end appliances.

The fact is, that regardless of your budget, you want to choose appliances that will offer quality, value and carefree operation for the long haul. Luxury kitchen appliances offer these qualities and so much more. Splurging on the best appliances you can afford can make your life in the kitchen much easier, and more enjoyable for years to come!

Let’s take a closer look at exactly what luxury kitchen appliances deliver for the price when compared to standard ones.

Luxury Kitchen Appliances Offer Long-Lasting Performance

Typically, luxury appliances offer the highest quality working components that can take their functionality to the next level of performance in the kitchen. They provide greater energy efficiency and advanced technology to deliver professional results. Companies like Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Viking also rigorously test each appliance during the development and production stages to make sure it’s worthy of their name. This means that you can expect a higher level of quality from these makers.

In fact, you can often see and feel the difference in quality with luxury appliances. Open and close oven and refrigerator doors, they’ll feel heavier and more sturdy than standard appliances. Pull out the racks and drawers, examine the interior surfaces and controls. You’ll notice that the luxury appliances have a completely different look and feel than their less-expensive counterparts. They are made of higher quality materials, offer more weight and heft, better sealing and illumination. In short, they’re quality appliances that are built to last a lifetime.

Extra Features With Purpose

When it comes to luxury appliances, you most definitely get what you pay for. Extras are thoughtfully engineered to streamline your cooking time and enhance entertaining. For example, you’ll find high-end luxury stoves with built-in downdraft ventilation capturing smoke and odors at the cooking surface and removing them without the need for a hood. Or flexible cooking options like combination steam and convection, or microwave and convection ovens.

Often you’ll find oven features like timed start, where you can place dinner in the oven along with a temperature probe and have a timer turn it on and off at precisely the right time so you return home from work to a beautifully cooked roast for your family.

Luxury refrigerators often offer multiple food storage spaces with adjustable temperatures. For example, need extra freezer space? Convert the lower portion of the refrigerator to extra freezer space by pushing a button or even appliances built for entertaining like a large capacity dishwasher that heats plates for when you’re hosting a dinner party.

The High-Quality Fit and Finishes You Want

Luxury appliance makers spend a good deal of attention on design aesthetics so your purchase will offer a timeless look that will last a lifetime. The focus on fit and finish covers all aspects like sleek lines and countertop depth that ensures an integrated look. Appliances that blend into the cabinetry like Sub-Zero refrigerators or Miele dishwashers offer the homeowner the ability to replace the front of the appliance with matching cabinet panels to make them blend in seamlessly.

If you want a more professional look, most luxury kitchen appliance manufacturers offer quality, stainless-steel exteriors, and interiors as well as more aesthetic options to match any design style. Today, even refrigerators are high style with some models featuring glass doors to showcase the food. One model even has a velvety matte black interior complete with LED lighting.

If you’re an early adopter of new technology, luxury appliances are perfect for you. The high-end makers are usually the first to adopt innovative technologies into their products. With high-end Appliances you’ll enjoy:

Induction cooking that’s energy efficient and fast! Boil water in 90 seconds, with no dangerous heat using magnetic technology

Intuitively activated vent hoods turn on and off automatically based on need

Sensors in dishwashers and refrigerators that monitor and adjust for optimal temperature, humidity levels and even create the ideal freezer environment

Internal high-tech components like air purification and a magnetically sealed door to keep food fresher

Energy efficiency. A new Sub-Zero refrigerator uses less energy than a 100 watt light bulb

While the initial cost for a luxury appliance may be significantly higher than a standard appliance, the value you receive is much higher as well. Luxury makers use higher quality materials, pay attention to classic aesthetic design, and wrap the newest technologies into appliances that will stand the test of time, and daily use.

Not only that, but professional-style luxury appliances will add value to your home should you choose to sell. High-end appliances in the kitchen can work to elevate a buyer’s perception of the entire home, meaning you’ll sell quicker and often at a higher price. Brands like Wolf, Viking, Miele, and Sub-Zero are recognized by buyers as a luxury item and they’re often willing to pay up for that luxury.

If you are upgrading prior to selling and budget is a concern, choosing a “designer” range is the best use of your funds. The range is a major focal point in most kitchens and along with the range hood can help to define the entire space. That’s why it offers a big bang for the bucks. Plus nothing is more fun to cook on than a luxury range. They really do work better than an inexpensive stove.

To learn more about our kitchen remodeling service, don’t waste time. Call us today at (800) 371-8970 or reach out to us through our website for appointments and free consultation meeting.

Learn What’s New In Dallas for Kitchen Island Design

Kitchen islands are among the most popular features in today’s kitchen. Because of their popularity, designers have found a way to incorporate dozens of innovations into the space, from large to small. When considering your kitchen island design, think about how you would use the area, how you use your kitchen today and how the design might meet the most of your needs. Looking for design inspiration? Click Here

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Kitchen Island Design for Prep

One of the most frequent requests we hear from homeowners who want a kitchen redesign is more room for preparing food. Kitchen counters often get cluttered with coffee makers, toasters, knife blocks, so a kitchen island design that’s clutter free gives homeowners plenty of room for kneading bread, chopping vegetables or displaying foods for a holiday party. These can have the look of a farmer’s table with a wood countertop, or more tradition marble or quartz.

Kitchen Island with marble countertop – perfect for preparation

Looking For Kitchen Island Design Trends for Home Remodeling in Greater Dallas? Contact the professionals at Joseph & Berry and they’d love to discuss your project further – 800-371-8970

Dining Island

Fewer and fewer homeowners want to eat meals in a formal dining room and instead ask for seating options in the kitchen area. Incorporating dining seating into your kitchen island design is one way to accomplish that goal. The island can be counter height, bar height, or multi-level. High-top chairs or bar stools are easy to tuck away after use. Kitchen island seating is a place for the casual family meal, as well as a place to entertain friends.

Storage in Your Kitchen Island Design

Home cooks have come to realize that dishwashers, ovens and other big appliances built within a kitchen island take up a lot of space, leaving less room for extra storage, a seating area or other functions. If your plans include a large island as the focal point of your kitchen, include cabinetry to store items you use for entertaining, baking or large cooking projects in your kitchen island design. Since the top will likely be a space where people gather and food is prepped, and later displayed, having the tools and dishes for these jobs at your fingertips saves time and steps.

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Sinks and Small Appliances

If you love entertaining but hate leaving the action to do prep or clean up after, consider a sink at one end of the island. A small prep sink can be used for washing vegetables or serve as part of a wet bar. A larger farmer’s style sink can be used for rinsing dishes and washing items too big for the dishwasher. Friends can gather with drinks and refreshments at one end of the island, keeping you company both before and after the big meal.

Small appliances are also showing up in the latest kitchen island designs. A beverage fridge keeps the pressure off of your main refrigerator when entertaining, and a microwave stored just below the counter gives the whole family easy access to this handy kitchen appliance.

A Place to Display

The island side that faces your kitchen work area is usually functional, with cabinets and drawers for storage, but consider a kitchen island design that has shelving for displaying some of your favorite items facing the rest of the room. Whether it’s a collection of vintage cookbooks or your favorite yellowware pieces, having a spot to show them off in your new kitchen will add character and a personal touch to the design. Some homeowners also use the kitchen island as a place to display their own style. Consider a design that features a pop of color, or a natural wood accent to offset the look of the rest of the cabinets. In an all-white kitchen, a bright yellow island base makes the room feel less matchy, and a deep wood stain can give the room a cottage feel while keeping with the overall design.

Joseph & Berry have experienced staff on-site to help you create a custom kitchen island design, as well as many other home features. Serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Joseph & Berry provides top-quality design-build services and expert advice. Contact us today and let’s schedule your free consultation meeting!

One of the best parts of a kitchen remodel is the ability to start over! When remodeling your kitchen, there are so many choices to make from flooring and countertops to cabinets and appliances. One area that you should pay particular attention to when planning your design is kitchen storage.

The typical kitchen is crammed with items that need a good home. From your stand mixer and food processor to dishware, pots, and pans, bakeware, utensils and dry goods, a well-organized kitchen can be a joy to work in. It’s important when planning to take all of your storage needs into consideration and then give everything a place, especially in a smaller kitchen.

As you begin the planning process, speak with your kitchen designer or design-build contractor. They will have information on the latest storage solutions available. You should also visit online sites like Houzz, HGTV, and DIY to gather information and get inspiration. Pull together clips from your favorite home design magazines and make a file to go over with your team, and visit the big box stores to get ideas.

Here are a few kitchen storage ideas to help get you started and inspire you as you begin to plan your dream kitchen!

Kitchen Storage Ideas For Your New Kitchen Remodel

Pre-planning is the key to success when it comes to designing the perfect kitchen to meet your lifestyle and aesthetic needs. While many storage solutions are kept out of sight behind a closed cabinet door, this one area of your remodel can pay off big when it comes time to get down to the serious business of cooking for your friends, relatives, and family.

1. Custom Pantry

More than any other kitchen storage, most people dream of a custom kitchen pantry. And why not, it’s the perfect solution for storing everything from dry goods like pasta, flour, and sugar, to appliances, cleaning supplies and even holiday cookware. A well-designed pantry will offer you plenty of visible storage so you can see what’s in there and a way to keep everything organized making shopping a breeze.

2. Corner Drawers

When it comes to kitchen design, every square inch needs to be taken into account. Corners can be a particularly tricky area when t comes to cabinet space. Enter the corner drawer. Corner drawers run diagonally into the corner, which makes them deeper than standard drawers, so they offer great storage space for larger items.

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3. Under Sink Drawer

The space under your sink can easily be an unorganized mess. Adding a sliding under sink drawer can give you easy access to cleaning supplies, paper towels and more. It’s one more potential organization tool to help you keep your kitchen neat.

4. Pullout Trash and Recycling Bins

Adding a pullout trash and recycling bin can make cleanup a snap. Place it under your island counter or close to where you do your food prep. Just slide food scraps and recyclables right in for quick clean up.

5. Cookie Sheet/Broiler Pan Drawer

Consider adding a divided deep drawer to your bottom cabinets. It’s a great way to keep your baking supplies, muffin tins, broiler pans, and pot lids organized and easily accessible. If you can’t spare the cabinet space, consider adding wood or metal dividers to the cabinet above the fridge.

6. Pots and Pans

Pans and pot lids organized and easily accessible. If you can’t spare the cabinet space, consider a narrow pullout drawer near the stove.

7. Appliance Garage

While the pantry can be used to store those large appliances you occasionally use, An appliance garage is a perfect solution for those appliances that get more use like the toaster, immersion blender and coffee machine. Your appliances are readily available, and when the door is closed, you get to have clutter-free countertops which make your kitchen look beautiful!

8. Deep Cabinet Organizer

If you don’t have the space for a dedicated walk-in custom pantry, a great second choice is a floor to ceiling deep cabinet with cabinet door racks and pullout shelves. Having storage on the doors and inside can help you stay organized and keeps everything within easy reach.

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9. Spice Storage

Nothing makes cooking more enjoyable than having the materials you need close at hand when creating a fabulous meal. Consider specialized spice storage near the stove to make adding the right ingredient at the right time easy. This feature can be adapted to your personal style. If you love to cook keep your ingredients close by with plenty of spice storage.

10. Kitchen Office Area

A kitchen command center can be a real plus. Make an area with a desk, computer and mail slots to take care of chores like bills. Include storage for cookbooks, recipe cards, and more. It’s a great way to keep your household organized, makes the perfect place to pay bills, and plan those weekly meals for the family.

11. Dedicated Pet Area

Pets are members of the family, and a popular trend is creating a dedicated area just for pets. Built-in food and water bowls under a cabinet can help to keep your pet from tripping you up when you cook. You may want to add a dog or cat bed, after all, they’re family!

Custom made dog shower in a new powder room that was built outside kitchen area

These are just ten ideas to help get you started. Ask your kitchen designer or design-build firm to help you create the perfect storage solutions for your dream kitchen. At Joseph & Berry, we help our clients to create their dream kitchens every day. If you’re planning a remodel, give us a call. Let us show you the luxury we can create for you!

At Joseph and Berry, we work with homeowners through every step of the kitchen construction process from planning and budgeting through the design and execution of your project. Let us help you create your custom kitchen! Contact us to schedule an appointment for a design consultation!

The Pros and Cons of 5 Common Kitchen Floor Plan Shapes

Every kitchen remodel is a unique experience thanks to the wide variety of fixtures, finishes, appliances, and styles available to meet the aesthetic and stylistic needs of the homeowner. But while every design is unique, kitchen designers typically stick to five major floor plan shapes when creating a kitchen floor plan. Looking for kitchen design ideas and inspiration? Click here

These floor plans have become standard because they offer homeowners the most efficient use of space and can fit into some remodeling situations. Of course, there are often slight design variations within specific plans. Let’s explore the pros and cons of these five common kitchen floor plan shapes.

The G-Shaped or Peninsula Kitchen

The g-shaped kitchen is the name used to describe a situation in which the cabinetry includes a prep-area peninsula and four walls of storage. It got this name because, on a blueprint grid, this design resembles the letter “G.”

This design is an extension of the popular u-shaped kitchen and is a natural upgrade for homeowners looking to add some additional prep space to their existing u-shaped kitchen design. A g-shaped kitchen increases the number of base cabinets included in the plan and as a result, increases the storage space along with creating a more streamlined cooking area.

Along with the increased storage possibilities, this design is popular because it offers enhanced facility for the home chef by surrounding them with a variety of close counter space options for food preparation and immediate access to cooking tools and supplies. The extra counter space is accessible during the entire food prep process and can make preparing complex meals easier and more efficient. It’s a great design for food prep, cooking, and cleanup with all stations accessible to the central area of the kitchen. This design offers a tighter countertop configuration that’s perfect for larger kitchen spaces.

The U-Shaped or Horseshoe Kitchen Floor Plan

The u-shaped kitchen features cabinets and appliances lining three walls of the kitchen space. It’s an efficient design that’s perfect for freeing up floor space.

The u-shaped kitchen maximizes the use of wall space by using three walls for upper and lower cabinetry and appliances. This design allows the home chef access to various areas of the kitchen without needing to cross the room. If the layout of the space doesn’t provide three free walls, adding an island can serve the same function, but it eliminates the third wall of upper cabinet storage. The u-shaped kitchen is flexible, works in many different styles and the size of the space is not a determining factor. The most critical factor to a successful u-shaped kitchen design is to place the most used appliances within a single working kitchen triangle. This allows for the most efficient use of space.

The L-Shaped Kitchen

A well-established design, the l-shaped kitchen is ergonomically and sensibly designed and has become an extremely popular choice among homeowners and designers alike. What makes it work so well is that it supports the kitchen work triangle featuring specific food preparation, cooking, and cleanup areas. The l-shape design is perfect for smaller kitchens that cannot fit an island or are not large enough to accommodate a g-shaped design.

The l-shape design is timeless and works well no matter what style or decor the homeowner chooses. The name refers to the fact that this design is built into a corner where two walls form a perpendicular angle. It works best and is most balanced if one wall is twice the length of the other.

The Galley or Corridor Kitchen Floor Plan

A galley kitchen is a perfect choice for homes with a smaller space for the kitchen that features a space with more length than width. In terms of space, galley kitchens can be economical, but if not correctly designed, they can also be very inefficient. This style is typically found in many apartments. While most homeowners prefer more space, it’s important to note that the galley kitchen is the kitchen layout of choice for many restaurants and professional chefs. The galley kitchen floor plan can be an extremely efficient design to work in if the kitchen triangle is properly incorporated into the layout.

A galley kitchen works best when completed with open shelving and fewer cabinets. Closed cabinetry can visually shrink the space and make it feel more confined. A popular addition to the galley design is to incorporate a pass-through window to facilitate moving food from the kitchen to the dining area. A galley kitchen can feel cramped but can be incredibly functional with proper kitchen design.

The One Wall Kitchen

As the name suggests, this design is placed along a single wall. It’s typically found in smaller homes and studio apartments. The one wall kitchen design is often used to conserve floor space and reduce construction costs.

A one wall kitchen has all of the cabinetry and appliances place along one wall. This means that the homeowner must perform all of the tasks of cooking in a single linear space. Because of the limited space, a one wall kitchen will also often contain smaller appliances like a compact refrigerator and range. These appliances have typically separated the sink. Modern one wall designs have become more popular with homeowners interested in an open floor plan. Coupled with an island located directly across from the wall, this design allows more workspace while still providing the open floor plan homeowners favor. A one wall kitchen offers the convenience of preparing, cooking and clean up in one single compact space.

At Joseph and Berry, we can help you to choose the perfect kitchen floor plan to fit your lifestyle, space, and needs. Our designers are very familiar with these five common layouts and can work with you to add the luxury finishes, fixtures, and appliances to create your dream kitchen! If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and you’re planning a kitchen renovation, give the professionals at Joseph & Berry a call! We’re here to help you design a home that will meet your needs for years to come.

Choosing Between Freestanding or Built-in Appliances for a Remodel

Today’s sleek and stylish kitchens often utilize built-in appliances. This style of an appliance is part of the permanent construction of the kitchen and creates a seamless look within the cabinetry. Built-in appliances are not only aesthetically pleasing; they add value to a home. At Joseph & Berry, we find they are a popular choice in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and our professional design team has used them frequently in creating both modern and traditional designs. Here are some things to consider when shopping for built-in appliances.

Full granite backsplash in this modern kitchen remodeling by Joseph & Berry

What makes it a built-in appliance?

For many years, free-standing appliances were the common choice for home kitchens. These appliances are entirely transportable and interchangeable, making it easy for homeowners to move them to a new area, as they are not attached or are superficially attached to the end of a counter or on its own, like a stand-alone refrigerator.

Slide-in appliances are commonly found today. A space for a range or refrigerator is built into the cabinetry, and the appliance slides in. This allows for more of the transportability of a freestanding appliance with a look more in line with a built-in.

Built-in appliances are fixed into place. A wall oven, microwave above the range, or stovetop installed into a countertop are all built-ins. More recently, building refrigerators and other appliances into the cabinetry have increased in popularity.

Best uses for built-in appliances

Dishwashers, ranges, and ovens should always be built-ins for a simple and consistent kitchen design. Microwaves are also a good choice because it frees up valuable counter space. Smaller appliances not traditionally built-in can also keep a kitchen looking neat and tidy if properly installed within the design. Here are some recent trends that Joseph & Berry designers have seen in recent kitchen remodels.

Coffee makers are a must for most households and also take up counter space. For those looking for as sleek a kitchen as possible, a built-in coffee maker, or coffee maker/espresso machine combo, might be a good choice. For the serious home chef, having a blender/food processor unit installed into the countertop is a convenient tool. Pitchers and containers can be attached to the blending mechanism for quick prep and fewer machines in your cabinets.

The microwave is moving from above the range to below the countertop. Some homeowners are opting for a microwave built in below the counter or within a drawer that slides out for use and then returns out of site. Another quick cooking tool is the warming drawer. The size of a standard drawer, this below the counter tool can keep food warm while your guests arrive, or while waiting for teens to get home from after-school activities.

remodel-dallasLook for the microwave drawer! Can’t see it? Means we did a good job! 🙂

Before you go all built-in appliances

Before you decide on a kitchen full of built-in appliances, here are a few things to consider. Free-standing and slide-in appliances are often more affordable and are easy to move in the event of a repair. Typically, they are found in standard sizes and can be easily replaced if you decide down the road for a different style.

There are significant benefits to the built-in appliance. They are fully integrated into the kitchen, giving homeowners a dream look. They are also more customizable, coming in a wide range of sizes, depths, and colors. We’ve also seen that built-in appliances last longer than free-standing options.

If you have questions about built-in appliances, please contact us. Joseph & Berry is one of the few custom remodelers specializing in high-end construction. Every project has project manager on-site and our designers are always available to discuss your custom options.

Avoid these all too common mistakes when designing a kitchen layout

Kitchen layout and design have always been part art, part science. While there are plenty of aesthetic choices to make when designing a kitchen, the actual functionality comes down to some hard and fast rules. Every professional designer and design build contractor have at some point had to deal with poor design. Whether it’s due to the home owner’s unwillingness to compromise, or simply an oversight on their part, they’ve pretty much all “been there, done that.”

Think about it for a minute. The kitchen is the one room in the house that truly has multiple functions. We cook, eat, clean, drink and socialize in the kitchen. It’s where we share meals with our families, and where the kids sit after school to do their homework. That’s why it’s the heart of your home and the one room that needs to be beautiful as well as functional.

Regardless of your design style, proper kitchen layout and organization are essential. Avoid these common mistakes to achieve a functional, elegant, and practical kitchen design!

Obstructing “The Triangle” in Your Kitchen Layout

When designers refer to the kitchen triangle, they are speaking of the relationship and placement of the sink, stove, and refrigerator. This is the area of greatest activity in the kitchen, and it requires careful planning and unobstructed access. The sink sees the most action, and you should have easy access to the refrigerator and stove as well as counter space for chopping and preparing food.

The placement of your sink is somewhat dependent upon your plumbing. If your sink is in an inconvenient location, it’s worth the expense to move it for functionality. No matter what size your kitchen or what shape (L-shape, galley, etc.To) the sum of all three sides of the triangle should not be less than 10 feet or more than 25. If it’s too small, it can be cramped for more than one person. Too large and food prep can be a tedious task.

Inefficient or Wasted Storage Space

Kitchens are usually chock full of stuff! Pots and pans, appliances, dishes, plates, silverware, dry goods and more. It all requires storage and some items like food processors or stand mixers can require a lot of space. Because built-ins can be expensive and overall space may be limited, one major design flaw is not planning for enough storage space. Every kitchen layout has some wasted space, but with a little planning, it can be minimized.

If your kitchen is smaller, consider using extra tall upper cabinets with molding. You can place lighting or plants along the molding to create a focal point. Always include cabinets above the refrigerator. Not including cabinets here is a waste of space. It’s the perfect place to store those large platters that only come when you’re entertaining.

Not Enough Counter Space

One major complaint among many homeowners is a lack of counter space. Considering everything that takes place in the kitchen from food prep, to eating, to homework, plus all of the appliances that live there like the coffee maker and toaster, you’ll need plenty of counter space. Whenever possible, consider a kitchen layout that incorporates an L-shaped counter, or if you have the room, an island.

Inadequate Lighting

Lighting is an essential element in every kitchen. It’s not only about design and ambiance, but you’ll be preparing food using sharp knives and other kitchen utensils. There are three types of lighting you should add when designing your kitchen layout, task, decorative and accent lighting.

Task lighting provides general lighting and should be bright enough to work by. Overhead lights on a dimmer can function as both task lighting and accent or ambient lighting. Accent lighting light pendants or mini pendants over the island or counters can add a pleasant ambiance. Pendants on dimmers can act as both task and decorative lighting. Under-cabinet lighting can not only add a wonderful design element to your kitchen, but it can also illuminate countertops providing additional lighting when working in the kitchen.

Skipping The Back Splash

A backsplash is often a place that homeowners choose to skip to save a little money. Sometimes it’s left out of the planning altogether. This might save you a few bucks in the short term, but in the long-run, it will cost you a lot of time.

The kitchen is full of steam, water, and grease. Putting a backsplash above the cooktop and counters can save you a lot of clean up time and keep your kitchen looking fresh. It’s a lot easier to clean grease off of a backsplash than it is to clean it off a painted or wallpapered surface.

Work With Professionals When Designing Your Kitchen Layout

The best way to avoid these common problems is to work with a professional design build firm. They can assist you with every aspect of your project from the initial design to creating the budget through construction. The designers at Joseph & Berry are on top of all of the latest trends and information available. We work with our clients to understand their lifestyle, needs, and creative vision and then create a plan to help them get there. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel or would like more information, give us a call. We’re always ready to help you achieve your dream!

Want to learn more about kitchen remodeling in Dallas area? Click here!

If live in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex and you’re planning a kitchen remodel, give the professionals at Joseph & Berry a call! We’re here to help you design a home that will meet your needs for years to come.

Kitchen Remodeling & Marble Countertops, Style & Care Guide

From the time of ancient civilizations marble has been the luxurious choice of royalty. Today, when it comes to selecting a beautiful natural stone for your kitchen countertop, marble countertops remain the top choice for many homeowners. Kitchen Remodeling & Marble Countertops, Style & Care Guide just call us now to schedule your free consultation meeting :(800) 371-8970

Marble comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns depending on the species and the cut. Nothing is as white in nature as natural marble. It offers a unique color and veining, unlike any other natural stone.

But there are factors to consider. Marble is not a perfect product. That being said, if you take some care, choose carefully and know what to expect, your marble countertops can offer a lifetime of beauty and functionality.

Let’s explore the world of marble countertops for your kitchen, from the different styles available to tips for caring for your luxurious new kitchen countertops.

VARIETIES AVAILABLE

For most people, when thinking about marble, their first thoughts go immediately to creamy white stone with sophisticated natural veining. The fact is there are hundreds of colored varieties available, in all colors including taupe, green, gold, red and black.

While the popular products from Carrara, Italy are incredibly dense and non-porous, marble is a nonfoliated metamorphic rock that is composed of calcium carbonate (the same ingredient used in over-the-counter antacids) or magnesium carbonate. Both of these elements react with acids like vinegar or lemon juice.

Acid on marble can cause etching, a reaction between the acid and the calcium in marble. Even after sealing, etching can happen. That’s why understanding how to care for your marble countertop is important.

On colored marble surfaces, these etch marks are visible as white areas and are much more noticeable on non-white marble countertops. This is why many designers will stick to white when considering marble for the kitchen. While the Italian varieties like Statuario and Calcutta are highly prized, equally beautiful high-quality marble is available in the US including Vermont Danby and Colorado Yule and may be slightly more affordable.

Dallas kitchen remodeling – kitchen countertop guide:

SELECTING THE PERFECT SLAB FOR MARBLE COUNTERTOPS

Every slab is unique, so the best choice is to work with your designer. There’s an art to selecting the perfect slab. You need to understand where the veining is going to be located on the countertop. The best designers will artfully place the markings so that they flow almost like a painting.

A great designer will consider how the pieces fit together, the longer the slab, the better. It reduces seams and lets the natural beauty of the stone shine. If you do have seams, proper cutting book match pieces so that adjacent pieces will have a mirrored look.

VEINING

Every producer and quarry are different, but certain types of marble can be cut to accentuate unique veining patterns. Crosscut or Feuri, for example, can create slabs with an open flowering pattern, which looks random and is perfect for book matching. Vein cut or Striato slices the block the opposite way to create a linear, striped appearance.

DIFFERENT FINISH CHOICES

Technology has changed the stone cutting industry. Today, homeowners have more finish choices than ever before. Different brushing and polishing techniques can create finishes that can be described as leather, brushed or river washed. The most popular choices, however, remain polished which is glossy, and honed which is a matte finish. If you’re concerned about acid etching, a honed finish can hide etching better than a polished one.

Because of its relative softness, marble can be worked with easily. With the availability of CNC or computer controlled machining, marble edges can be artfully etched and sculpted to create beautiful edge patterns for a unique look.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Marble needs periodic sealing for best performance, but it’s not foolproof. If you choose a honed finish, etch marks can be well hidden and can usually be removed by lightly scrubbing with Comet paste using a Scotch-Brite pad. If it’s a polished surface, professional care is recommended.

Marble is also prone to staining, but it can often be removed using an alkaline poultice that gradually pulls the stain out of the stone as it dries. Any of these applications will also strip the sealer so, after any intense cleaning, sealer must be reapplied. In cases of severe damage, marble can often be sanded down or polished to return it to like new condition.

At Joseph & Berry, we are experts in the selection and installation of luxury materials like marble countertops. Our designers can help you to choose the perfect slab, create unique, exciting designs and our team of professional installers can help you to give you the countertops you desire in your dream kitchen. If you’re planning a kitchen makeover or complete remodel, give us a call. We’re always happy to show you al of the options available to you for your dream kitchen!

The kitchen is the heart and hearth of your home. It’s the place where you prepare your meals and share dinners with your family. Where your kids do their homework and where your family and friends gather during the holidays. A kitchen remodel is often the first project many new homeowners consider when they move into their new home. And why not, a kitchen remodel often has the largest payoff regarding lifestyle and boosting a home’s resale value when it’s time to sell, High-End Kitchen Remodel Cost ? just call us now:(800) 371-8970

Of course, a kitchen remodel is also one of the most complicated home improvement projects and can be one of the most expensive. Many factors go into budgeting a kitchen remodel like the size of the room, the quality of materials and whether or not you change the room’s layout.

At Joseph & Berry, we specialize in high-end remodels that include the finest fixtures, appliances, and materials. We start by sitting with the homeowners to completely understand their lifestyle, needs, and priorities, then we outline the project, from budgeting and design, through permitting, scheduling and construction.

Let’s explore some of the factors and costs of a high-end, luxury kitchen remodel in Dallas, TX!

ESTIMATING YOUR KITCHEN REMODEL COSTS

As a general rule, a high-end kitchen remodel will take your kitchen down to the studs and replace everything with new materials including flooring, cabinets, appliances, tile, countertops, sink, fixtures, hardware, lighting and ventilation. You’ll receive an entirely new design and floor plan maximized to meet your lifestyle and aesthetic needs. Often, a luxury remodel can include moving or removing walls, adding an addition for extra space, installing skylights, heated floors and more.

For this scope of work, you can expect to pay between $120,000 to $250,000 or more. Of course, within this budget, you receive the very best professional quality appliances, all new countertops using elegant materials like marble, stone floor tile, high-end custom cabinets, and more. Your remodel can include natural stone materials like limestone flooring and marble, quartzite or soapstone countertops, solid wood cabinets made with exotic woods and custom tile work.

Again, your final budget depends on determining your priorities, needs and wants. When you engage a design build firm, your contractor will begin the design process, and once the design is finalized, they will outline exactly where your budget will be allocated.

The final result of the planning stages is establishing your budget. This is the final arbiter of what you can achieve. Make sure when you set your budget, you stick to it. Add-ons and change orders can do a number on the best budget. Once you have a fixed budget, you can better plan ways to keep your costs in the range you can afford. As you’re developing your plan, you’ll need to consider these three areas, priorities, payments, and predictions.

KITCHEN REMODEL PLANNING: DESIGN PRIORITIES/QUALITY OF LIFE

Once you’ve established a budget range, you then need to decide where to spend your money. This depends on your preferences and goals. Now is the time to really dream big. Write down every aspect of what you envision as your dream kitchen along with a general price for that item or upgrade. Once you’ve got your list together, prioritize your needs and stop when you reach your budget number.

Don’t forget the small costs! For instance, will you live in your home during your kitchen remodel, or will you need to live elsewhere? If you don’t think you can stay in your home (it can be disruptive!), you’ll need to factor in the cost of a hotel. If you’re staying at home during construction, remember to budget for takeout food unless you have a secondary kitchen!

Finally, you’ll need to add a cushion for unexpected costs. It should be about 20% of your total budget. When you’re taking a room down to the studs, you never know what you’ll find. For example, when you remove the old dishwasher you may uncover a leak that has rotted the subfloor, or perhaps you’ll need to rewire to bring your home up to code. All of these surprises can add costs… and there will be surprises, so it’s best to be prepared!

A High-End Kitchen Remodel Cost? just call us now:(800) 371-8970 for the best price in Dallas TX

white custom kitchen remodel and copper vent hood

A High-End Kitchen Remodel Cost? just call us now:(800) 371-8970 for the best price in Dallas TX

MAKING PAYMENTS: TALK TO YOUR CONTRACTOR

Once you’ve signed off on your project, you’ll want to go over the financial details. Will you need to come up with a down payment? Does the contract call for milestone payments, for example, 20% down, 20% at completion of demolition, 20% upon passing inspections, etc.? Will you need to make a significant down payment with the balance due upon completion of the final punch list? Make sure you have everything in place before any work begins.

PREDICTIONS: CASH FLOW PLANNING

Finally, complete your budget process by creating a spreadsheet with the final budget and a timeline. This allows you to see the entire picture of how and when money is needed. Track expenses. A good idea is to have a weekly meeting with your contractor to review the costs and budget. That way, costs can be kept in check, and your budget won’t get out of control.

If you don’t like spreadsheets, contact the professionals at Joseph & Berry regarding your kitchen remodel. We work with homeowners through every step of the process from planning and budgeting through the design and execution of your project. Help us help you! Set up an Ideabook on Houzz and begin compiling ideas for your ideal kitchen. It can help us to better understand your vision, and we can work with you to make it a realistic dream!

Let us help you create your dream kitchen! Contact us to schedule an appointment for a design consultation!

A High-End Kitchen Remodel Cost? just call us now:(800) 371-8970 for the best fair price in Dallas TX